Tue, 24 Feb 2026

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 What does the new law on school uniforms mean in Northern Ireland?

BBC News NI having been looking at they key aspects of the new guidelines.

* Schools must make uniforms and PE kit affordable for families on low incomes, with a benchmark income level set at £15,390.
* Schools should "minimise the number of branded items" in uniforms, including school-specific PE kit.
* If schools use branded items or unusual colors, they must clearly explain why to parents.
* Parents can get uniform items from multiple shops, not just one supplier.
* Uniform banks or exchanges should be run by schools.
* Schools cannot discipline pupils for breaching uniform rules due to financial hardship.
* Parents can complain to the Department of Education if they believe a school is not following the guidelines.
* The law gives girls the legal authority to challenge their schools to let them wear trousers instead of skirts.
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